COVID-19 Travel Update

The Jekyll Island Authority is actively monitoring developments and information surrounding COVID-19’s (coronavirus) potential impact on travel to and around Jekyll Island, as the health and safety of our residents and visitors is a top priority. We are continuously monitoring and participating in communications provided by Georgia state health and government officials to ensure any necessary precautions are taken.

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Travel Preparedness for our Visitors

As the state of Georgia returns to reopening, we understand not everyone feels comfortable traveling at this time. For those who choose to visit the island, we are committed to providing a safe environment and the health and wellbeing of our visitors is our top priority.

Beaches

The Administrative Order regarding beaches from the Department of Natural Resources has been lifted as of 11:59 p.m. on May 6. All regular beach activities, including the use of chairs, coolers, tents and umbrellas, can resume, with the exception of the following social distancing mandates that remain in effect through May 31:

No groups over 10 people

All people must be at least 6 feet apart unless under the same household

All beach pavilions, picnic areas and beach restroom facilities have reopened for use, but all social distancing mandates outlined above remain in effect.

The public is encouraged to report any observed noncompliance of social distancing by calling the Georgia State Patrol at 912.635.2303 or the DNR Ranger Hotline at 1.800.241.4113.

Facility Operations

While some amenities, restaurants, and shops have begun to resume operations, others will see a “rolling return” once we’re confident we can maintain proper sanitization and social distancing expectations from the CDC. This will occur over the next several weeks and even then, some amenities will likely operate at a reduced capacity for some time.

Closures

After much thought and concern for the health and safety of 4-H staff, volunteers, and our 4-H participants, Georgia 4-H has made the difficult decision to cancel camp for the 2020 summer season. We are already looking forward to 2021, when we can continue “to make the best better.”

Summer Waves Water Park

The water park is currently preparing to open in accordance with CDC recommendations. Once the Georgia Executive Order requiring water park closures is lifted, an opening date will be announced.

If you need assistance with purchasing an annual or day pass online, a Guest Information Center specialist can provide guidance on accessing the payment portal, but passes will need to be purchased online.

A gate attendant will remain available 24/7 by pressing the HELP/INTERCOM in each lane for assistance.

Current club hours will be 7:45 a.m. – 4 p.m. A limited number of golf carts will be available for use from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and will be restricted to one player per cart unless participants are from the same household. All carts must be returned no later than 4 p.m.

Due to staffing limitations, Great Dunes Golf Course will not operate as a standalone facility, until further notice. To facilitate play on Great Dunes, the Club will combine the front of Oleander with Great Dunes, and players will need to check-in at the main clubhouse first. New, temporary, scorecards will be available and the changes will be reflected on both the GHIN systems and the cart GPS systems.

The Golf Pro Shop is limited to a maximum of 10 people, including staff, at all times.

Social distancing is mandatory at all times.

McCormick’s Grill – 912.635.4103

Open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily for limited dine-in services with a maximum of 20 guests in the building at a time. Call ahead on Saturdays & Sundays for breakfast hours; times may vary. Take-out service is also available.

Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum – 912.635.4036

Open under new operational protocols and limited occupancy. Historic District tours will be limited and reservations are encouraged. Please visit jekyllisland.com/history for details and tram tour reservations.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center – 912.635.4444

Open under new operational protocols and limited occupancy. Please visit gstc.jekyllisland.com for details.

Injured sea turtles can still be reported by calling: 912-264-7218 or 1-800-2SAVEME (800-272-8363)

Restaurant, Hotel & Business Operation Changes & Closures

The operations listed above are subject to change. Please contact individual properties for details on any changes in operations.

Safety Protocols

We are taking a number of stringent precautionary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of those living, visiting and working on the island and have increased many of our operational protocols.

Staff who have contact with guests will be required to wear assigned face masks

Customer service counters will have plexiglass dividers, to further establish social distancing

We have partnered with EcoLab to have hospital-grade disinfectants available for use in all JIA restroom facilities as well as increased maintenance and service frequency of our public restroom facilities including a secondary sanitizing step in the service protocol

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Visiting

As you plan and embark on your travel to Jekyll Island, it is important to implement best practices and judgment to prevent the spread of illness to others. To exercise caution, please follow the CDC’s recommendations:

Practice social distancing; keeping a space of 6 ft. between you and others

If you are feeling ill or have prolonged symptoms of illness, do not travel and seek guidance from a health care professional

Those with compromised immune systems or of an elderly age should avoid travel to prevent the risk of illness, in accordance with the extended Executive Order regarding vulnerable travelers